The announcement of a further 15 Alexa controlled products by Amazon makes you wonder just how many of these IoT gadgets households really need. On the list is a voice-enabled microwave, wall clock and guard device. Following Amazon’s big reveal, tech experts and social media users have heavily criticized some of these new gadgets, stating that “there’s no need for them.” Due to the name behind them, this smart technology will undoubtedly sell well, but your home probably won’t benefit from them. Therefore, if you really want an automated home, packed full of smart technology, here’s how to ensure you choose ones which really will smarten up your home.
Voice activated assistant
Smart speakers or voice-activated assistants are the heart of every smart home. According to The Verge, 39 million Americans own a smart speaker. The voice recognition software built into this technology is what really turns them from helpful assistants who can advise on the weather to smart home heroes, capable of looking after the whole family. After hearing a prompt word, a recording starts which is then transferred to the cloud. The technology used within these assistants have to be able to decipher hundreds of different accents and speech patterns. In turn, they’ll secure your front door when prompted, answer the phone, control your electric sockets and even call medics for you in an emergency.
Programmable thermostats
Globally, the smart thermostat market is worth $1.1 billion. These gadgets have transformed day to day living as they allow users to control the temperature within their homes via their mobile devices. This can be done away from home, so there’s no need to ever return to a cold property again. Additionally, a smart speaker can be linked up to it to make your home even smarter. One of the cleverest things about programmable thermostats is that they are controlled by a thermometer which automatically turns off the boiler when your optimum household temperature is reached. Furthermore, these smart thermostats will track and learn your daily routine and will produce a heating and cooling cycle tailored to your needs, so you’ll never be cold again.
Security a prime concern in IoT
Smart lighting
The days of using incandescent bulbs and light switches to illuminate your home as you step through the door are long gone. Smart light bulbs claim to last up to 25 times longer than standard light bulbs, thus making them more economical. Smart lighting systems typically use a mesh network to wirelessly connect smart bulbs to one another. A hub controls the network via your internet connection. As a result, devices including your phone, tablet and smart speaker can dictate the brightness, color and times when the lights are on and off. Even more impressively, your lighting can be controlled when you’re away from home. This, therefore, gives you the power to light up your home at any time and provides maximum security and safety when you’re both in and away from home.
The IoT and smart home market are booming. However, to ensure your home is truly smart, opt for a smart speaker to take control of your home. Additionally, link it up with a programmable thermostat and smart lighting to see a smart transformation in your home.
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